United ordered to go for City’s throat

Sheffield United have been ordered to show Coventry City no mercy at Bramall Lane this afternoon, writes James Shield.

The visitors arrive at Bramall Lane just a place above the League One relegation zone following a run of six games without a win.

Clough said: “We can try and exploit the nervousness of their position, I don’t think they will come out all guns blazing. It might have to be a patient day for us, don’t give them any encouragement, anything to give them confidence.

“We have all been in the situation, you go out desperate for a point or three to get away from that bottom four. It’s not a nice position to be in.

“That could be the key for us. Give them nothing to cling on to. Nothing.”

United, in fifth, found themselves battling against the drop 12 months ago before eventually finishing seventh.

Clough, who expects Michael Higdon (hamstring), Ryan Flynn (Achilles), Stefan Scougall (knee) and Mark Howard (back) to all miss the match, added: “They will be nervy at the moment, more than anything. You are desperate for a point, just not to lose games.

“We know from our experience 12 months ago, you would do anything to get a 0-0 away from home. From there you might nick a 1-0.”